Preparing for Distance Learning Success
Is an online course right for you?
You may want to take a look at some short reading to make your final decision.
"What I Wish Someone Told Me Before Taking Online Classes."
"What Makes a Good Online Student? 5 Qualities That Lead to Success."
Communication Expectations in Online Courses
Communicating online requires thought and planning to relay information, meet course deadlines and share ideas. Here are a few expectations for communicating in an online environment .
Tips for Success in Online Courses
- Creating a Successful Learning Environment
- Practice self-care through UH Hilo’s Student Health and Wellness programs to assure that you remain your best self during your online learning experience.
Get More Information
- Go to MyUH Services for secure, personalized access to more information about various academic services within the UH community.
Plan Your Journey
Online Programs and Courses
- View a current listing of Courses Available.
Advising, Financial Aid, and Tuition
- Contact the Hilo Advising Center for helpful information such as discussing your educational possibilities and getting answers to any questions you may have about pursuing your education at UH Hilo.
- Apply for financial aid.
- Online courses are charged the same tuition as face-to-face courses. Courses are typically 3-credits.
Apply!
- Complete the Application for Admission.
Getting Started
Your UH Username is your electronic key to gaining access to the university's services.
- Go to the "Check Status of UH Username" webpage" to see whether you’ll need a new UH Username created or a password reset on an existing UH Username.
- Read all of the text in the brown section on the left-hand side of the webpage, then complete the form on the right-hand side.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- For assistance contact the UH ITS Help Desk.
- Go to the "Check Status of UH Username" webpage" to see whether you’ll need a new UH Username created or a password reset on an existing UH Username.
Your UH Student ID number is another important piece of information to have available.
- Look on your registration paperwork or tuition receipt to find your 8-digit UH Student ID number.
Obtain your Student ID Card. This card serves as your campus photo identification (ID) card and gives you access to a number of in-person services.
Go to the UH Orientation to Online Learning webpage:
- Read all of the text to get important information.
- Register for and complete the online orientation.
Log into Lamakū and access your course(s).
- To troubleshoot login issues, missing courses, etc., check the Lamakū Student Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) webpage.
- If you need assistance:
- contact the UH ITS Help Desk. They are available 24/7 by phone or email.
- You can also use their live online chat which is available Monday through Friday from 8:00a to 3:00p.
If needed, contact the Edwin H. Mookini Library’s Wahi Pāpaho Media Commons about loanable technology (laptops, cameras, wi-fi hotspots, and more), as well as access to media editing stations and media production rooms.
Have a great time!
Services and Support
Bookstore
UH Hilo Mookini Library
- How do I find an online book or journal article for my research paper?
- I can't get into a resource like JSTOR or Films on Demand.
- Can I get help from a librarian?
- Ask a Librarian
Student Services
- Know the resources available to you such as Basic Needs, Community and Community Resources, Disability and Access Services, Mental Health resources, and more.
Technology Help Desk
- Visit the Technology Services and Support webpage for:
- Computer hardware or software support.
- Accessing the Internet
- Information on loanable technology such as laptops, cameras, and wi-fi hotspots.
Test Proctoring
- Information on UH System locations for proctor support of an online course.
Updated 10/23/2025